Published on: 23 November 2018
Last Updated on: 05 November 2024
Over the past decade, the way in which we shop has completely changed. More of us now shop online, buying everything from our groceries, clothes, home appliances and smartphones from online stores. Statista estimates that 2.14 billion people will shop online by 2021, a huge increase from the 1.79 billion online shoppers in 2018 and the 1.32 billion who purchased goods online in 2014.
Shopping online offers greater convenience as we can buy goods from the comfort of our couches instead of braving the cold weather to head to the shops. In some cases, there are also goods that can only be purchased online because of stock issues at physical stores, or because they just don’t sell that particular item.
However, just because shopping online is easier than buying things in-person, that doesn’t mean that you should stop doing your due diligence when it comes to selecting products to buy and where you buy from them. You still want to get the best deals and offers and the best quality products. So, to help you achieve that, read our guide to being a clever consumer when you shop online.
The Clever Consumer’s Guide to Shopping Online:
Shop Around:
When you shop online, it can be very easy to be tempted by the first offer that you see. If you see a price that suits your budget, or an offer of “free shipping,” you may feel inclined to order right away. But don’t just order immediately, instead, a file that product listing away in the back of your mind (or add it to your bookmarks) and begin to shop around.
The beauty of online shopping is that it’s incredibly easy to compare everything say you want to purchase luxury soft towel online, you can look for tips before buying. Unlike shopping in-person where you would have to call different stores on the phone or visit them in person, a quick Google search will allow you to pull up a list of retailers that sell what you’re looking for. From then, you can quickly compare the prices, the cost of shipping the product, and bonuses (e.g loyalty offers and extra rewards) in order to find the offer that suits you best.
Do Your Research:
It’s always important to do your research when shopping, but especially online. You don’t want to be stuck with a product that wasn’t as you expected, leaving you feeling disappointed. You just want to be sure that what you’re ordering will be of high quality.
The first step in doing your research is to read reviews of that retailer. If the retailer sells brand new products, what do people say about those brands online? Some retailers list customer reviews directly under the products listings, or you could search for the brand name on social media to see what people are saying in real-time (try searching for the URL if there’s nothing recent for the brand name). Doing your research when buying used or refurbished goods, such as refurbished phones and laptops will look a little bit different. You’ll need to learn what seller refurbished means and how that differs from manufacturer refurbished (and vice versa) in order to understand who has refurbished a product and how it has been tested. These terms are commonly found in product listings on online retailers (including Amazon) and so finding out more about refurbished testing processes and how technicians have been trained can be key to getting quality refurbished goods.
Double-Check the Returns Policy:
Sometimes, even when you’ve done your due diligence and have researched the retailer and have confirmed that it is trustworthy, things still go wrong. This may be due to mistakes during shipping or the manufacturing process. These things happen and they’re unfortunate and disappointing, but if a store has a good returns policy, then you don’t have to worry.
Always double-check the returns policy before buying because you’ll want to know that you’re covered in the event that anything goes wrong. Some of the stores with the best return policies include IKEA which is famous for its 365 returns policy which lets you return something for a full refund within a year if you are unsatisfied. Bath & Body Works is also a standout as it has a 100% satisfaction guarantee, offering no limit on when you can return a product. In fact, it even has a price adjustment policy, letting you get some money back if the price of the product is lowered within 14 days of your purchase.
Review the Security:
Safety is paramount when shopping online. You’re placing a significant amount of trust in an online retailer because you’re showing them personal details such as your name, your address and your credit card info. Any time you spend money, you just want to know that your personal and confidential data is protected and will not fall into the wrong hands or be used for anything other than what you’ve consented too.
Reading reviews of retailers and doing your research as mentioned above can be a useful tool in this, but you may want to get even more technical given that this is the Internet. Something you can do in that case is to check the retailer’s SSL certificate. An SSL certificate is something that confirms that a website encrypts its data and that it cannot be intercepted by any malicious actors. You’ll know if a site has SSL because you’ll see a padlocked sign next to the URL (website) in the address bar at the top of your browser. The website will also start with the phrase “https” to let you know that it’s secure.
Armed with these top online shopping tips, you will be able to find the best prices and deals from the most trusted retailers. So enjoy your shopping and all of your new products.
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Online shopping can either be a dream or a nightmare! This is something that almost everyone will agree upon. Irrespective of that, many people are constantly asking one particular question— Is AliExpress legit?
If you have been thinking about the same, you have found the right place for all your answers!
AliExpress is a rather popular e-commerce platform among individual shoppers as well as wholesale customers who are looking for ways and products to expand their business. But there is always one factor that they are worried about. It is the safety of the platform.
Keep reading this blog till the end to learn more…
A Little Brief On AliExpress!
AliExpress is an online retail platform owned by Alibaba Group, a Chinese multinational conglomerate. It is known for being a marketplace where individuals and businesses can buy a wide range of products directly from manufacturers and sellers based in China and other countries.
AliExpress presents an extensive selection of items, encompassing electronics, apparel, accessories, household items, toys, and a diverse range of products, frequently at competitive price points.
Launched by Alibaba in 2010, AliExpress operates exclusively online, primarily offering Chinese-made merchandise. Its operational model is akin to eBay rather than Amazon: serving as a hosting platform where third-party enterprises vend their merchandise rather than engaging in direct product sales.
Keep in mind that while AliExpress provides a convenient way to access a variety of products, buyers should exercise caution and do research, as the platform hosts numerous sellers, and the quality of products and services can vary.
Is AliExpress Legit? Let’s Find Out!
Yes, AliExpress is a legitimate online retail platform owned by Alibaba Group, a well-established and reputable Chinese multinational conglomerate.
AliExpress is recognized as a dependable platform for purchasing items at a more affordable cost compared to local alternatives. It operates under the umbrella of Alibaba Group, a well-established conglomerate with a strong emphasis on commerce and media.
AliExpress offers customers the assurance of full refunds for products that are delivered in damaged condition, experience delays, or fail to arrive altogether.
However, it's important to understand a few key points:
1. Variety Of Sellers
AliExpress hosts a wide range of sellers, including both reputable and less reliable ones. While many sellers offer genuine products and provide good service, a few may engage in questionable practices.
2. Quality And Authenticity
The quality and authenticity of products can vary. Some products may be of good quality and accurately represented, while others might not meet expectations. It's advisable to read product reviews and ratings from other buyers before making a purchase.
3. Shipping Times
AliExpress sellers are often based in different countries, which can result in longer shipping times. Be prepared for potential delays, especially if you're ordering internationally.
4. Communication
Communication with sellers might involve language barriers or differences in time zones. Some sellers may be more responsive and helpful than others.
5. Buyer Protection
AliExpress does provide certain buyer protections, including a refund policy if items don't arrive or are significantly different from what was described. Make sure to understand the terms of buyer protection before making a purchase.
6. Research And Caution
AliExpress can offer great deals, but thoroughly researching products and sellers is important. Look for sellers with high ratings, positive reviews, and a good track record.
Why Is AliExpress So Popular?
AliExpress stands as a global online retail and wholesale platform, connecting customers to a vast array of over 100 million products crafted by Chinese manufacturers and merchants, all offered at remarkably competitive prices.
This expansive marketplace encompasses an extensive spectrum of offerings, spanning categories like apparel, electronics, toys, and household appliances, establishing it as one of the most sought-after destinations for shoppers.
In addition to its diverse product range, AliExpress furnishes essential services such as secure payment solutions and dedicated customer support, all meticulously designed to ensure a seamless and enjoyable shopping journey for patrons around the world.
Within the realm of AliExpress, an unparalleled assortment of goods awaits, accompanied by price points that defy comparison. The platform's steadfast dedication to exemplary service and unmatched affordability has solidified the trust of countless individuals, making AliExpress a preferred choice for online retail therapy.
There are several reasons for this platform to be famous and popular among consumers. Here are some of them that you need to take a look at:
1. Wide Variety Of Products
AliExpress offers an extensive range of products from different categories, allowing shoppers to find items they need or want, often at competitive prices.
2. Affordability
There are several products on AliExpress that are priced lower than what is typically found in local stores or other online platforms. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.
3. Global Shipping
AliExpress provides international shipping options to various countries, making it accessible to a worldwide audience. This global reach is especially appealing to customers who might not have easy access to certain products locally.
4. Direct-From-Manufacturer Pricing
Buyers can often purchase products directly from manufacturers or wholesalers, bypassing intermediaries and potentially obtaining better prices.
5. Consumer Reviews
The platform allows buyers to leave reviews and ratings for products and sellers, helping others make informed purchasing decisions based on real experiences.
6. Ease Of Use
AliExpress offers a user-friendly interface and convenient shopping experience, making it easy for customers to browse, compare, and purchase products.
7. Flash Deals And Discounts
AliExpress frequently offers flash sales, discounts, and promotions, which can attract shoppers looking for deals and savings.
8. Seller Competition
With numerous sellers offering similar products, there's healthy competition that can lead to better prices and improved customer service.
9. Dropshipping And Reselling
AliExpress is a popular source for entrepreneurs and small businesses engaged in dropshipping or reselling, allowing them to access a wide range of products to offer their own customers.
10. Trends And Fashion
The platform often showcases trending and fashionable items, appealing to shoppers who want to stay current with the latest styles.
It's important to note that while AliExpress offers many advantages, there can also be challenges, such as longer shipping times, quality concerns, and potential language barriers when dealing with international sellers. Shoppers are encouraged to research products and sellers, read reviews, and consider these factors before making purchases.
Why Is Ali Express So Cheap?
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If there is one reason why a lot of people ask, “is AliExpress legit,” it is because of the cheap price of the material they sell!
In contrast to Amazon, the majority of vendors on AliExpress operate from China and acquire their goods directly from Chinese manufacturers. This strategy enables them to maintain lower expenses and provide complimentary or highly affordable shipping options.
Does that mean Chinese manufacturers play a big role in cutting costs?
YES!
Chinese manufacturers play a vital role in AliExpress' triumph, providing a diverse array of top-notch products at remarkably affordable prices. Their ability to maintain minimal operating expenses empowers them to offer competitive pricing, positioning them as frontrunners in the ever-changing global market.
A pivotal driver of their success is the seamless integration of cutting-edge technology, enhancing their efficiency and speed in production. Moreover, this advanced technology facilitates tailored customization, ensuring customers receive precisely what they desire.
This unparalleled level of adaptability and personalization solidifies Chinese manufacturers as an integral component of AliExpress' supply chain, enriching the platform's shopping journey to an unmatched degree.
Here are some other reasons that are responsible for the extremely low price on AliExpress:
1. Minimum Cost Of Supplies And Raw Material
A key factor that contributes significantly to the affordability of AliExpress is the economical sourcing of raw materials and supplies. This is largely a result of the Chinese government's commitment to facilitating competitive pricing for suppliers when acquiring necessary materials. Additionally, there's a prevalent practice of procuring raw materials locally, which effectively cuts down operational expenses.
China's considerable scale enables the cost-effective mass production of specific items, thereby driving down overall manufacturing costs. These collective elements culminate in providing AliExpress shoppers with access to more budget-friendly products, affording them the advantage of reduced prices compared to alternative options.
2. Lost Labor Cost
AliExpress offers products at exceptionally affordable prices, primarily due to the advantage of utilizing low-cost labor in China. As the globe's most populous nation, China boasts an extensive labor force accessible at a fraction of the expense incurred by hiring labor in other advanced economies.
This is particularly appealing to businesses aiming to curtail expenses while bolstering profits. Chinese workers are celebrated for their unwavering commitment and diligent work ethic. Often investing extended hours for comparatively modest wages, they expedite and optimize the production process.
Consequently, this practice fosters a competitive pricing environment for commodities and services on AliExpress, establishing it as the preferred destination for cost-conscious shoppers worldwide. Furthermore, Chinese laborers are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and steadfast commitment to quality, guaranteeing that merchandise available through AliExpress adheres to the most stringent quality benchmarks.
3. Production In High Volume
Maintaining affordable prices on AliExpress hinges on high-volume production. Manufacturers employ advanced production machinery to create goods in large quantities, boosting efficiency and output. This approach saves time and lowers costs, benefiting customers with reduced prices.
Furthermore, the expansive array of suppliers within China's burgeoning market adds to product competitiveness and affordability. Businesses can tap into multiple suppliers and optimize their purchasing influence to find cost-efficient production solutions.
How To Avoid Fraud On AliExpress?
While AliExpress is a legitimate platform, due diligence is necessary when making purchases on your part. You must carefully review product details, seller ratings, and buyer reviews to ensure a positive shopping experience.
Following these guidelines and using common sense can minimize the risk of encountering fraud or counterfeit products while shopping on AliExpress. To avoid fraud when shopping on AliExpress, consider these tips:
1. Choose Reputable Sellers
Always search for sellers who have positive reviews, high ratings, and a good track record. Trusted and established sellers are more likely to provide genuine products and reliable service.
2. Read Product Descriptions
Carefully read the product descriptions, specifications, and reviews to ensure that the item matches your expectations and needs.
3. Check Seller Feedback
Review the feedback and ratings left by other buyers for the seller. This can give you insights into the seller's reliability and customer service.
4. Look For Verified Badges
AliExpress offers verification badges for certain sellers, indicating that they have met certain criteria. These badges can help you identify trustworthy sellers.
5. Avoid Unrealistic Prices
If a deal seems too good to be true, it might be. Be cautious of extremely low prices, as they could indicate counterfeit or substandard products.
6. Communicate With Sellers
Before purchasing, communicate with the seller to ask questions about the product, shipping times, and any other concerns you may have. Pay attention to their responsiveness and professionalism.
7. Check Shipping Details
Understand the estimated shipping times and delivery methods offered by the seller. Be aware that international shipping might take longer.
8. Use Secure Payment Methods
Payment methods, such as credit cards or PayPal, are secure. These offer buyer protection and the ability to dispute charges in case of a problem.
9. Avoid Sharing Personal Information
Be cautious of sellers who request personal information beyond what is necessary for the transaction.
10. Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter suspicious or fraudulent activity, report it to AliExpress customer support immediately.
11. Educate Yourself
Familiarize yourself with AliExpress's terms of use, buyer protection policies, and dispute resolution process. Knowing your rights as a buyer can help you navigate any issues that may arise.
12. Check Local Customs Regulations
If you're ordering internationally, be aware of your country's customs regulations and potential import duties or taxes.
Bottom Line: AliExpress Is Completely Legit, But Choose Wisely!
AliExpress welcomes users from diverse global regions and provides its website and smartphone apps in a range of languages, including English, Portuguese, Russian, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch, Thai, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Polish, Hebrew, Turkish, and Arabic.
If you were seeking information about the answer to “is AliExpress legit,” I believe that this article has provided the answers you were looking for. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any other inquiries on the same topic. Simply scroll down to the bottom of the page, share your comments and suggestions in the provided box, and I'll be available to address them.
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8 Best Shopping Apps for 2023
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Most people have it down to a pat. If you fall, you get back up again. Nothing will keep you down. So when you remember your first road bike experience as a child, you know that is true. But life happens, and you grow up to be an adult.
When you see road bikes for sale online or in a store, you think about your past. When was the last time you rode a bike? Are you interested in buying one now that you are all grown-up?
Congratulations are in order if you are thinking of buying your first road bike after a very long time. But you have to understand that not all bikes are the same. If you want a particular design or specification, then it may be wise to consider a couple of factors before making a purchase.
Why do you need a bike?
There are a lot of road bike types, but you need to know what you want to determine your requirements. Is it for daily work commute? Do you need one because you plan to move up a notch as a high-level cyclist? Is the bike for you or your wife? Does your kid need a bicycle for practice? Is your road flat, or is it a hill-side journey? These are just some questions that need answering before buying a bike.
Do you know what a road bike is?
It is one with a lightweight frame, thin wheels, and drop handlebars for a variety of hand positions for the rider. You travel on it via a smooth and flat pavement. Rocky, dirt, and sand roads are a no-no. You can use it for a fast commute, but never for heavy loads.
Are there different kinds of road bikes?
Yes, there are different kinds due to different bike sizes and heaviness. Road race bikes – as the name suggests – is very lightweight, durable, and perfect for racing. Also known as sportive, endurance road bikes are for long-distance that is more upright than the other types of two-wheeled vehicles. There are fitness bikes that are more uneven-road friendly than their counterparts. Bikes for women and kids are also part of this group. These are just some of the wheels you will find under this category.
Is it safe to buy a bike that is on sale?
Of course, it is. The quality of the road bikes for sale does not depend on its price but its frame geometry and bike components or groupset. The good thing about a sale price is that it will go well with your budget. Also, they most likely have a lot of high-quality bikes on sale so you can choose from a wide variety.
Do they have a customer service line I can contact?
Doing basic research will not be able to answer some of your questions and concerns. A call or a visit to the store is an option, but sometimes it is not enough. Bike shop or otherwise, all businesses must have a functional after-care line for efficient customer relations. Proper client servicing will always equate to repeat sales and word-of-mouth recommendations from the client. For a bike shop, you need to check if it has a working contact page. It will also help if they have social media accounts for more natural interaction with the company.
Bike riding is great for a lot of things. You can exercise, travel, and meet new people while treading your roads. Whatever the reason, an efficient bike that is on sale is perfect for your current cycling needs.
Read Also:
Best Bike Types for Daily Use
How to Get An Accurate Valuation of Your Motorcycle When Selling
No matter what type of rider you are, you want to look your best as you hit the road. Finding the right motorcycle apparel is all about deciding what you value most and picking a brand that matches your personal style. Here’s a rundown of what O’Neal has to offer in each category of wearable gear.
Finding the right apparel also reflects you and your bike’s personality. If you are a Harley rider, your perfect riding apparel would be different from someone tearing up the highway in a Ducati.
In the world of serious biking and riding, selecting the right apparel for your ride is probably the single most important thing after the bike itself.
Jerseys:
If your budget has you on the hunt for cheap motorcycle clothing and accessories, O’Neal might be a good brand to explore. While affordable, these jerseys don’t skimp on any of the style or function. Having a quality jersey should be a priority for you as you hit the road on your bike especially if you are going to drive for a few miles at a time. It can save your body from harmful heat, wind and more.
Bold patterns and striking colors are perfect for motocross t-shirts. Most designs also feature moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry in wet weather. The good news is O’Neal has many quality yet affordable jerseys to choose from for the motorcycle riders.
Pants:
Wearing a quality yet highly comfortable motorcycle pant can make a big difference in your motorcycle riding experience. O’Neal has a durable line of motorcycle pants to keep you riding for hours. The designs match the cool patterns of the jerseys, but you can also find a good neutral black if that’s more your thing. Adjustable waistbands, zippers and elastic allow you to get the exact fit you need. Many options also include pockets for added convenience.
Gloves:
You need a good grip on your gloves, and that’s exactly what O’Neal provides. Silicone on the palms gives you extra friction, and the material has good stretch, so you get a snug yet breathable fit. Many of O’Neal’s glove products also allow you to adjust the tightness around the wrists. The more control you have over a motorbike, the better it is for you in terms of safety and a perfect pair of gloves can give you the best control over your bike.
Boots:
Your feet may take the biggest beating out on the road, but with sturdy footwear, you won’t even notice. In times of dangerous accidents, your high quality, durable pair of boots can save you from injuries. O’Neal uses tough plastic to protect your shins, while extra padding on the inside keeps your heels nice and cushioned. Most of the brand’s boots include metal reinforcement panels that provide a barrier against road impact.
Check out O’Neal’s designs to see if they suit the vibe you’re after. Bold patterns can help you stand out, while sleek black options give you even more versatility. The brand’s functional features may also be just what you’re looking for.
The motorcycle accessories mentioned here are all for safety, style, and comfort. If you are a careful and responsible rider, you should have all of these and enjoy your rides. Take no risk with your life and keep your passenger sitting behind safe as well.
Read Also:
Tips For Buying A Beginner Mountain Bike
How To Get An Accurate Valuation Of Your Motorcycle When Selling
Dos And Don’ts When You’re Involved In A Motorcycle Accident In Syracuse NY
